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All Blacks

Strong sales for Steinlager Series Tests - 81 percent sold

The much anticipated return of France to take on the All Blacks in the three Test Steinlager Series is proving a hit with fans with more than 71,000 already booking their seats.

Eden Park hosts the opening Test of the Steinlager Series on 8 June which is the first time the All Blacks and France have played each other since the Rugby World Cup 2011 Final.

Three weeks out from the match, more than 38,000 tickets have already gone with fewer than 8,000 remaining.

In Christchurch temporary seats have boosted capacity for AMI Stadium (Addington) to just under 21,000 for the second Test on 15 June. Around 3,500 tickets remain, mainly in the temporary seats of the West Stand.

Taranaki fans are also relishing the prospect of seeing the All Blacks in action for the first time since they took on Ireland in 2010. Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth hosts the third Test on 22 June and just 3,800 tickets remain, the bulk being GA.

“We hoped the return of France would prove to be a huge attraction for fans so we are really pleased with the level of sales this far out from the Steinlager Series,” said New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew.

With 81 per cent of tickets across all three venues now sold, he urged fans who have yet to purchase their tickets to act quickly.

“This will be a very special series, particularly with the Dave Gallaher Cup at stake. France will also not be back here for a number of years so I hope fans make the most of the opportunity to be ringside to see the All Blacks take on our colourful rivals.”

Tickets to the Tests can be purchased from just $110 for a family of four in Taranaki, $140 in Auckland and $150 in Christchurch.

France also plays the Blues on Tuesday 11 June in the adidas Challenge which is the first time an international side has played an Investec Super Rugby team.

The All Blacks squad for the 2013 Steinlager Series will be announced on Sunday 2 June.